3380 – Smithsonian Strategic Security Staffing Analysis

The Smithsonian has embarked on a strategic analysis of its security organization, and in this session, you will learn about this effort and about best practices for museum security. Preliminary benchmarking studies and assessments culminated in a collaborative process, involving all levels of museum staffing, that was applied to each museum and research facility. Criteria such as facility layout, size, exhibit type, physical protection, and visitation were used to identify the necessary number and location of posts. Using previously performed studies and assessments, the multi-disciplined team determined the training, pay, uniform and weapon requirements, and resourcing (contract or proprietary staff) of each identified post. This process led to a specific security staffing plan for each Smithsonian facility.